Massachusetts Small Claims Court Guide
Everything you need to know about filing a small claims case in Massachusetts.
Maximum Claim
$7,000
Filing Fee
$40–$150
Fee waiver available
Court Name
Small Claims Session (District Court / Boston Municipal Court)
Hearing Timeline
30–45 days from filing
Find your courthouse in Massachusetts
Search by city, county, or ZIP code to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
How Much Can You Sue For in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, individuals can file small claims cases for up to $7,000. This limit applies to both individuals and businesses.
Massachusetts Small Claims Court Filing Fees
| Claim Amount | Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Claims up to $500 | $40 |
| Claims $501–$2,000 | $50 |
| Claims $2,001–$5,000 | $100 |
| Claims $5,001–$7,000 | $150 |
If you cannot afford the filing fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver. Ask the court clerk for a fee waiver application when you file.
Statutes of Limitations in Massachusetts
You must file your claim within the time limits below, or the court will dismiss your case regardless of its merits.
6
years — written contract
6
years — oral contract
3
years — property damage
3
years — personal injury
Ready to take action in Massachusetts?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court. Our free guide shows you how to write one in minutes.
Read the demand letter guideWhere to File in Massachusetts
Small claims cases in Massachusetts are handled by the Small Claims Session (District Court / Boston Municipal Court). Massachusetts has 14 county District Courts and Boston Municipal Court.
Where to file: File in the court nearest to where the defendant lives or has a place of business
Not sure which court you need? Our step-by-step filing guide walks you through finding the right court for your case.
Find your specific courthouse: Search for your county courthouse below ↓ — get the address, phone number, hours, and see if e-filing is available.
How to Serve the Defendant in Massachusetts
After filing your claim, you must formally notify the defendant. This is called "service of process" and is required before your case can be heard.
Accepted methods: Court sends notice by first-class mail
Deadline: Service must be completed at least 14 days before the hearing.
Massachusetts Small Claims Court Procedures
Can I bring a lawyer?
Yes, attorneys are allowed to represent parties in Massachusetts small claims court.
Can I appeal?
Defendant may appeal for new trial within 10 days. Plaintiff cannot appeal.
Is e-filing available?
Yes, electronic filing is available in Massachusetts.
Are remote hearings available?
Yes, virtual/remote hearings are available in Massachusetts.
Official Massachusetts Court Resources
Find Your Courthouse in Massachusetts
Select your county to get the courthouse address, phone number, hours, and filing options.
Barnstable County
Barnstable area
(508) 375-6827
Berkshire County
Pittsfield area
(413) 499-0558
Bristol County
Taunton area
(508) 222-5900
Dukes County
Edgartown area
(508) 627-3751
Essex County
Salem area
(978) 283-2620
Franklin County
Greenfield area
(413) 774-5533
Hampden County
Springfield area
(413) 747-4841
Hampshire County
Northampton area
(413) 213-7610
Middlesex County
Cambridge area
(781) 897-8500
Nantucket County
Nantucket area
(508) 228-0460
Norfolk County
Quincy area
(617) 232-4660
Plymouth County
Plymouth area
(508) 747-8400
Suffolk County
Boston area
(617) 788-8600
Worcester County
Worcester area
(508) 831-2010
Don't see your county? Let us know here!
Ready to take action in Massachusetts?
A demand letter often resolves disputes before court — our free guide shows you how to write one.
Read the demand letter guide